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Barack Obama is to become the next president of the United States, the 44th to hold the office and the first black president. |
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In a victory speech to hundreds of thousands of supporters in Chicago, Mr Obama said the American people face some of their most serious challenges in 100 years. |
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In the congressional elections, which coincided with the presidential poll, the Democrats consolidated their control of both houses of Congress. |
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As Rajini Vaidyanathan reports from Washington, it's the Democrats' first clear victory in such elections for 40 years. |
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In the Senate, the party made some key gains, including defeating Elizabeth Dole in North Carolina, a seat the Republicans had held for 35 years. |
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But, it looks like the Democrats have failed to reach the magic number of 60 senators, which would have made it easier for them to pass bills without being blocked. |
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The Democrats' increased majority will however allow the party to exercise more control. |
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The same can be said for their position in the House of Representatives. |
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Projections there suggest the party could increase its number of seats by as many as 20. |
